Abberton Reservoir
This expansive reserve offers excellent bird-watching opportunities across 1,200 acres and is a Wetland of International Importance. The glory of this site is in the sheer number of wildfowl that visit - 40,000 ducks, swans and geese each year. The reservoir was constructed in 1936 and the nature reserve added in 1975, when many native trees and shrubs were planted, lending a home to small nesting birds including nightingales.
Highlights: Wildfowl that visit include wigeon, teal and tufted duck. Add some impressive numbers of shovelers and great crested grebe and you are destined for a fantastic day at this nature reserve.
Access: Open: 9am to 5pm daily, apart from Mondays. Open bank holidays excluding Christmas day and boxing day.
Wheelchair access: Yes, to three of the hides on the boardwalk
Entrance fees: All Wildlife Trust members welcome, non-members also welcome but are invited to make a donation to support Essex Wildlife Trust's work.
Location: Five miles southwest of Colchester. Head south on the B1026.
Grid ref: TL 963 185
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
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